Rose, citrus, wild herb and new leather aromas come to the forefront. Enveloping and loaded with finesse, the linear, full-bodied palate delivers juicy cherry, orange zest, licorice and a hint of graphite alongside taut, close-grained tannins that leave a firm finish. It's balanced, with vibrant acidity. Youthfully austere. 2026-2041.

This Brunello offers ample cherry and raspberry fruit, along with underbrush and earth flavors, backed by robust tannins. Shows a rich texture midpalate, along with a strong grip on the finish. Best from 2025 through 2042. 830 cases made, 300 cases imported.

The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Altero from Poggio Antico is an unapologetically fruit-forward and oak-influenced effort. Crushed blackberries, currants, plums and balsamic spices find lift through mentholated herbal tones. It's medium-bodied and velvety in texture, with stimulating acids to contrast its weight, showing ripe red/black fruits offset by sour citrus. The palate aches with youthful tension throughout the cheek-puckering finale, leaving hints of cedar and tobacco. A short stay in the cellar may help add a little more balance here, but the 2016 Altero simply seems to be a little too big for its own good.